“One word frees us of all the weight and pain in life. That word is Love.” – This quote on love is from Socrates, the great Greek philosopher. As he has stated, love is powerful enough to end our sorrows and make our lives a lot more beautiful. While “love” is a generic term that can describe motherly affection, attachment between siblings, etc., “romance” is the relationship between two partners. It involves lots of emotions, feelings, attraction, and intimacy. If you are a romantic at heart, or fascinated by romantic novels, you have reached the right place! In this blog, we will look at some of them that match different moods. Must Read: Romantic Places for Valentine’s Day.
Best Romantic Fiction Novels
Check out these novels! Choose which one suits your mood, and read accordingly.
1. Pride and Prejudice
Author: Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice was written by Jane Austen.
- A. True
- B. False
If you are in a reflective mood, like thinking about your past and present life, opt for this novel!
One of the best romantic fiction novels, Pride and Prejudice was published in 1813. The protagonist is Elizabeth Bennet, who faces the consequences of her hasty judgments. It so happens that Elizabeth meets Mr. Darcy, who is aloof and haughty. He refuses to dance with Elizabeth at a ball, and she is highly offended. In the book’s climax, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth tie the knot.
Like Austen’s other novels, Pride and Prejudice talks about marriages that revolve around class distinctions.
2. The Notebook
Author: Nicholas Sparks
If you feel like reading a book that’s loaded with romance and intimacy, go for “The Notebook.”
The novel was published in 1996, and a movie (based on the book) of the same name was released in 2004. The story is based in New Bern, a town in North Carolina. It’s all about the romance between a mill worker, Noah Calhoun, and a rich girl, Allie. Similar to the situations in many a love story, Allie’s parents refuse to accept their love. When Noah leaves his small town to serve in World War II, it looks as if his relationship with Allie is over. Meanwhile, Allie gets involved with another person. If you are a person who makes note of the first lines of novels, “The Notebook” will not disappoint you!
3. North and South
Author: Elizabeth Gaskell
If you are in the mood for some romance plus inspiring content, read North and South.
19-year-old Margaret’s family relocates from a sleepy village to an industrial town in England. Margaret meets John Thornton, a cotton mill owner. The rest of the story is about the complicated relationship between the two. One of the acclaimed romantic love novels, North and South was published in 1854-55.
In addition to romance, you will find the novel to be rich in the areas of gender, religion, and politics.
4. It Ends with Us
Author: Colleen Hoover
If you feel bored, “It Ends with Us” is the perfect choice for you! It’s one of those thrilling and heart-wrenching romantic novels by Hoover.
The book was published in 2016. The protagonist, Lily, leaves behind her old life in Maine and starts a new business in Boston. She falls in love with the handsome neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid. But he has an aversion to dating. Meanwhile, Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan, shows up in Boston, which becomes an interference to Lily’s romance with Ryle.
5. Me Before You
Author: Jojo Moyes
If you are stressed out or feel as if your life is a tragedy, read this awesome novel by Jojo Moyes. This novel can help you recount all your blessings in life even if you are in stressful situations.
Will is stuck in a wheelchair after a life-altering accident. Louisa is appointed to assist him and make him feel better. At first, Will and Louisa resent each other, but as days pass, a friendship blooms between them, which eventually turns into love. All along, Will has been planning to die by assisted suicide in Switzerland because he is too fed up with his current life.
The book was first published in 2012 in the UK. If you are a fan of a rollercoaster of emotions, you will love this book!
6. Gone with the Wind
Author: Margaret Mitchell
If you feel rejected or let down by someone, go ahead and read this novel by Mitchell, who used to read lots of books. Margaret’s husband once told her, “For God’s sake, Peggy, can’t you write a book instead of reading thousands of them?” And that’s how she started writing “Gone with the Wind!”
The story is set in the US, during the Civil War era. The novel was published in 1936. Did you know that the author first wrote the final moments of the novel, and then wrote the beginning and middle parts?
One of the best romantic love novels, Gone with the Wind describes the real horrors of war brilliantly. It’s also one of the most popular classic love stories. Scarlett O’Hara is the protagonist, who is widowed at a young age. She faces the horrors of war, and the story revolves around her unfulfilled love for a man. The book won the Pulitzer Prize in 1937.
7. The Fault in Our Stars
Author: John Green
If you are annoyed at someone or irritated thinking about your life, just read this novel. It helps you understand the trials and tribulations of terminally ill people.
Hazel’s life has been anything but thrilling for the past few years. She has been diagnosed with a type of incurable cancer. When Hazel’s mom forces her to join a cancer support group, she does it reluctantly, and Augustus Waters enters her life. He is a charming boy whose optimism unnerves Hazel. Soon, love blossoms between Gus (Augustus) and Hazel.
Published in 2012, the story is about “love within numbered days.” It’s a reminder that life is something we take for granted and everyone doesn’t get to enjoy it to the fullest. This romantic novel can linger in the readers’ minds throughout their lives.
8. Little Women
Author: Louisa May Alcott
If you yearn for a good family film, Little Women would be the best shot!
It’s one of the romantic love novels published in 1868. If you have already read this in your childhood, please read it again. You will notice new things in this novel that you may have missed in your childhood. The story follows the lives of the four March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, and details their passage from childhood to womanhood. It is loosely based on the lives of the author and her three sisters.
9. Persuasion
Author: Jane Austen
In case you are in a romantic mood and wish to read a novel sitting next to your partner, go for Persuasion.
Persuasion is the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen. It was published in 1817, 6 months after her death. In the story, Anne Elliot is given a second chance at love. She was once engaged but is now fast becoming an ‘old maid’ by society’s standards. This book is said to have a “mature flavor.”
10. It Takes Two to Tumble
Author: Cat Sebastian
For a lonely mood, “It Takes Two to Tumble” would be the ideal choice.
This is a famous and delightful historical romance novel published in 2017. The romance in this book is heartfelt and it’s impossible to feel lonely while reading this gem of a book. It is about a country vicar who looks after the children of a naval captain and how they fall in love.
11. Love Story
Author: Erich Segal
If you are looking for something heart-touching, Segal’s “Love Story” is the befitting novel for your mood.
Published in 1969, the novel involves two main characters – Oliver and Jenny, who fall head over heels in love with each other. But tragedy strikes and Jenny dies. Oliver is left to spend the ensuing days in deep sorrow. But does he find another woman to love? Find out by reading “Love Story,” and also its sequel, “Oliver’s Story.”
12. The Samurai’s Garden
Author: Gail Tsukiyama
Are you in a contemplative mood? Read The Samurai’s Garden by Tsukiyama.
The novel is set in Japan, in the 1930s. Stephen is sent to recover from tuberculosis in a small Japanese coastal village. Here, he finds friendship, love, and much-needed inner peace. The therapeutic setting of the story will make you feel serene and at peace with yourself. The novel was published in 1994.
13. Act Like It
Author: Lucy Parker
If you need a dose of happiness, or if you find yourself alone in Valentine’s Week, read “Act Like It.”
This is a story of a pair of actors at a London theater who feign a relationship for publicity purposes, only to find themselves falling in love for real. The hero and heroine are perfectly matched. One of the best romantic fiction novels of all time, Act Like It was published in 2015. If you want to feel happy, opt for this book anytime.
14. Norwegian Wood
Author: Haruki Murakami
Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and the tasks that lie ahead? Written by Haruki Murakami, Norwegian Wood centers around Toru Watanabe, who looks back and reflects on his life as a student staying in Tokyo. He falls in love with two women of contrasting characteristics. The novel’s backdrop is 1960s Tokyo.
The novel was published in 1987. It’s said that Norwegian Wood is one of Murakami’s easiest books to read. So if you are new to his works, you can start with this novel.
15. Outlander
Author: Diana Gabaldon
If you feel adventurous, go for Outlander without second thoughts!
The novel is about Claire Randall, who used to work as a combat nurse. She returns home after the war and reunites with her husband. Just as she enjoys a second honeymoon, Claire is transported to a world full of war. She falls in love with another man, a warrior. Torn between her desires and fidelity, Claire wages a battle in which two different men are involved.
Outlander was published in 1991 and remains one of the best romantic fiction novels of all time.
16. Everything, Everything
Author: Nicola Yoon
If you are in dire need of getting motivated, read this novel by Yoon. Did you know that “Everything, Everything” is the author’s debut novel?
Madeline Whittier is confined to her house because of a rare disorder. When she is 18, she secretly starts texting the boy next door – Olly. Gradually, their friendship turns into love. The complications Madeline faces while meeting or spending time with Olly form a major part of the story. She soon discovers that she is not sick, but her mother has faked it all those years to prevent her from going out!
The book was published in 2015. As said earlier, if you need something to motivate you for the day, or probably the next, go for it!
17. Jane Eyre
Author: Charlotte Brontë
If you need a thrilling romance novel, we recommend Jane Eyre. It was published in 1847.
The novel is about Jane, a young orphan, raised by a wealthy, but cruel aunt. Jane faces several challenges because of her aunt. As she grows and completes her education, Jane takes up a job as a governess. Read this romantic novel to know more!
18. Wuthering Heights
Author: Emily Brontë
If you feel sad (and don’t mind reading a sad book), “Wuthering Heights” is the book for you! Play some soothing music while you read it!
The book was published in 1847. The storyline follows Cathy and Heathcliff, who are two very different characters. They are widely known for screaming at each other across the moors. The novel involves a love triangle between Cathy, Heathcliff, and Edgar.
19. Mine Till Midnight
Author: Lisa Kleypas
If at all you feel pensive, focus on a novel like “Mine Till Midnight.”
Published in 2007, this book has swept many people off their feet! The plot centers around Amelia Hathaway and Cam Rohan. Amelia takes full charge of her entire family because her older brother is unable to do so. Meanwhile, Amelia is attracted to tall and handsome Cam Rohan, and what follows must be read by you!
20. This Summer Will Be Different
Author: Carley Fortune
If you are in some discomfort or pain, opt for “This Summer Will Be Different.” You will be fascinated by the plot and characters alike. The book, one of the best romantic fiction novels, was published in 2024.
Lucy vacations on an island with her friend, Bridget. Lucy finds herself hooked up with a man named, Felix, on the island. Many consider this novel a “sizzling story of forbidden love.” But it has comforted people in various types of pain or discomfort, so it can do that to you too!
21. The Mountain Between Us
Author: Charles Martin
Are you in the mood to read a “chilly” love story so that you can curl up in bed and feel cozy? Then, read “The Mountain Between Us.”
Published in 2010, this novel is about the experiences that Ben, a neurosurgeon, and Ashley, a magazine writer face. They are stranded in Salt Lake City because of a blizzard. With no other human in sight, how do Ben and Ashley spend their time and support each other? This unputdownable book is what you need when you twist and turn on a sleepless night. A movie, based on the book, was also made. It stars Kate Winslet – the heroine from the movie, Titanic, and Idris Elba.
22. The Host
Author: Stephenie Meyer
Are you bored out of your mind? We have the perfect solution for you! Read “The Host,” a combination of science fiction and romance.
The world is attacked by a species that occupies people’s minds but lets their bodies remain intact. In other words, humans are the “hosts” of these species. Melanie Stryder is one of the hosts. The “soul” in Melanie’s body starts yearning for a man – someone she has never met in her life before. The book was published in 2008.
23. Heartless
Author: Elsie Silver
Feeling kiddish and playful? Try reading “Heartless” by Silver, which is one of the most popular romantic love novels.
Cade Eaton is a single father, who searches for a nanny, to look after his kid during the summer days. Cade is always grumpy, and the new nanny, Willa, is vivacious. However, over time, Cade starts liking Willa, but he cannot accept that!
Published in 2024, “Heartless” is a heartfelt narration of “forbidden romance.” We are sure you’ll love it!
24. Call Me by Your Name
Author: André Aciman
Do you feel angry? Want something to divert your attention and calm your mind? Try reading this novel by André Aciman.
The book is set in the 1980s. It chronicles the story of a powerful love between a student and a visiting scholar. Published in 2007, the novel has scenes that can calm your nerves for a while. We’re sure you will find it interesting!
25. Anna Karenina
Author: Leo Tolstoy
Are you thinking of reading something scandalous? Then, read “Anna Karenina.” In this novel, Leo Tolstoy talks about two major, universal themes that dominate the world and our hearts – love and death. Anna Karenina was published in 1878. However, it’s still one of the most awesome romantic novels.
And yes! The novel does have a scandal – an extramarital affair between the protagonist, Anna, and Count Alexei, a cavalry officer. The young lovers elope to Italy, but the story unravels with more suspense from there…
26. Far from the Madding Crowd
Author: Thomas Hardy
Are you tired of all the modern gadgets, software, apps, and everything online? Do you wish to retreat to a house in a peaceful village where there’s no social media? If you do that, don’t forget to take a copy of Hardy’s “Far from the Madding Crowd” with you because it will suit your mood! Thomas Hardy’s romantic tragedies are popular in English literature.
First published in 1874, the novel is said to be Hardy’s first major successful work, and one of the most read romantic love novels. It’s all about Bathsheba Everdene and her three suitors. The story is set in a fictional county called, “Wessex.” The suitors unsettle Bathsheba, which results in further complications. Read the book in a peaceful place, if possible in a village, away from the modern day’s woes! Also Read: Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries to Escape Life!
27. The Hating Game
Author: Sally Thorne
If you feel anything like tiredness, read this romantic comedy by Sally Thorne. It will help rejuvenate your energy and go for more!
Published in 2016, the book involves two main characters – Joshua Templeman and Lucy Hutton, and all the love and hatred between them. Hope you have a riveting read!
28. Paris is Always a Good Idea
Author: Jenn McKinlay
This novel is suitable for people who feel sorrowful or dejected. It’s a rom-com (romantic comedy) that will have you in splits. This book, one of the best romantic fiction novels, was published in 2020.
Jenn McKinlay is famous for her rom-coms and cozy mysteries. In “Paris is Always a Good Idea,” the protagonist is Chelsea Martin. Her father is going to remarry, and Chelsea has her doubts about her dad’s fiancée. She also wishes to go back to her 20s, when she enjoyed visiting various countries. And, she wants to know if she is still attracted to her suitors, whom she met in three different countries.
29. The Spanish Love Deception
Author: Elena Armas
If you are in the mood for reading about traveling, we recommend this superb novel by Elena Armas. The book also deals with issues like trust and family pressure.
Catalina Martin is desperately in need of a date for her sister’s wedding. Further, she has lied to people that she has an American boyfriend! Her coworker offers to be her date, but she would have none of that. Read the book to know the rest of the story!
“The Spanish Love Deception” was published in 2021. If you feel like ignoring your current life for a while and traveling to different places, this novel would be just right for you! Here are the top 5 Inspirational Travel Books of All Time!
30. The Woman in the White Kimono
Author: Ana Johns
If you feel courageous enough to read about heartbreaks and, of course, a dose of romance, this one is the best choice!
With her descriptive writing, Johns tells the story of Naoko Nakamura, who is under the pressure of marrying the son of her dad’s business partner. As usual, Naoko is in love with someone else. The novel also talks about the murder of babies and the mistreatment of children from mixed races in Japan. The novel was published in 2019.
You Are What You Read!
Hope our hand-picked list of the best romantic novels proves interesting. It will surely help you pick a book that suits your mood best. If it’s unputdownable, try rereading it after a few months or years. From these novels, you will also know the do’s and don’ts of behaving with your partner. Let your romance with your loved one blossom further by gifting them a collection of some of these novels. And, make sure you read them together!